What Furniture Equipment Should I Buy First?
- Nate Jones, CPCU, ARM, CLCS, AU
- Oct 31
- 2 min read
Starting a furniture-making business is exciting—but knowing what equipment to buy first can be overwhelming. Whether you're launching a woodworking shop, custom furniture studio, or upholstery business, choosing the right tools early on sets the foundation for quality, efficiency, and safety.
At Wexford Insurance, we specialize in helping furniture businesses protect their operations with tailored insurance programs. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential equipment you should invest in first, and how insurance fits into your startup strategy.
1. Woodworking Tools for Cutting and Shaping
Precision starts with the right cutting tools. These are the backbone of any furniture shop:
Table Saw – Ideal for straight cuts and ripping lumber.
Miter Saw – Perfect for crosscuts and angled cuts.
Band Saw – Great for curved cuts and resawing thick boards.
Router and Router Table – For edge shaping and joinery.
Planer and Jointer – To flatten and smooth boards for consistent thickness.
For a full breakdown of essential woodworking tools,
2. Joinery and Assembly Equipment
Strong furniture depends on solid joints. Start with:
Drill Press – For accurate holes and hardware installation.
Pocket Hole Jig – For fast, hidden joints.
Clamps – Various types for holding pieces during glue-up.
Wood Glue and Fasteners – For permanent bonding and mechanical strength.
3. Sanding and Finishing Tools
Finishing is where your furniture shines. Invest in:
Orbital Sander – For smooth surfaces.
Detail Sander – For tight corners and intricate areas.
Dust Collection System – Keeps your workspace clean and safe.
Spray Gun and Compressor – For even application of stains and finishes.
Explore Global Finishing Solutions’ Woodworking Booths for professional-grade finishing systems.
4. Measuring and Layout Tools
Accuracy is key in furniture making. Start with:
Tape Measures and Rulers
Squares and Marking Gauges
Levels and Compasses
These tools ensure your cuts, joints, and designs are precise.
5. Safety Gear for Your Shop
Protecting yourself and your team is non-negotiable. Essential safety gear includes:
Safety Glasses and Hearing Protection
Respirators or Dust Masks
Gloves and Aprons
First Aid Kit
For a complete safety checklist, visit Katz-Moses Tools’ Woodworking PPE Guide.
6. Insurance for Your Equipment and Business
Once you’ve invested in tools and machinery, protect them with the right insurance. Wexford Insurance offers:
Insurance isn’t just protection—it’s peace of mind. It ensures your business can recover from accidents, theft, or unexpected downtime.
Final Thoughts
Starting a furniture business begins with smart investments—in tools, safety, and insurance. By choosing the right equipment and working with a niche-focused insurance agency like Wexford Insurance, you’ll be better prepared to build a profitable and protected operation.
If you're ready to launch your furniture-making business, Contact us today to explore coverage options tailored to your furniture business.
